Go West! To West Lothian

With its attractions in easy reach, West Lothian is an historic county (also known as Linlithgowshire), situated between Edinburgh and Glasgow.

West Lothian has a rich heritage and there are many historic attractions that are well worth exploring. It is a fascinating place to visit with its prehistoric burial sites, stately homes, palace ruins and castles. One of the most spectacular ruins in Scotland is Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots.

West Lothian offers a wide variety of leisure activities, whether you are looking for some adventure or prefer a bit of relaxation. There are a large number of golf courses plus sailing opportunities at the Low Port Centre. If you like to stretch your legs, then this is also a great place to go walking, be it gentle strolls in the many beautiful green spaces or something more energetic, such as the Bathgate Hills where the stunning views are worth the extra effort.

If you are looking for some family fun, West Lothian can provide all the excitement you need. Almond Valley Heritage Centre, ten pin bowling and the world-famous skateboarding park are all great ways to keep everyone entertained. The Five Sisters Zoo is a great place to visit and get up close to over 170 different varieties of animals, birds and reptiles from across the world. With keeper talks and feeding sessions throughout the day, there is much for all the family to see and do.

Run by volunteers, Linlithgow Canal Centre runs cruises and town trips with its own tea room, offering the chance to enjoy fresh baking and tea and coffee. The canal museum is situated in a former canal stable and holds records, photographs and artefacts generally associated with the Union Canal. The exhibition shows how the canals were built, the water supply, the canal at work and important historical dates and the wildlife that can be found in and around the canal.

West Lothian is a great place for a daytrip or a short break. With some fantastic shopping opportunities and often a number of events, activities, music and performances taking place in most local towns, you won’t be short of things to do when you visit. It is also easily reachable if you choose to stay in Edinburgh and want a day trip out of the city to enjoy something a little different to what central Edinburgh has to offer.

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